Lapacho is also known by the Portuguese name of Pau d'arco. The therapeutic ingredients come from a host of potent plant substances called naphthoquinones.
Lapacho in therapeutic doses appear to combat bacteria, viruses and fungi. It also reduces inflammation and strengthens the immune system. The anti-inflammatory properties are of benefit in acute bronchitis as well as muscle pain. A tincture of Lapacho directly aplied to warts is useful in eradicating them. In animal studies it showed favorable promise in shrinking tumors. Some critics believe that therapeutic doses and not the isolated compounds of pau d'arco would destroy cancer cells without side effects. Some researchers recommend that it can be used to complement conventional cancer treatment. More research needs to be done in the area of cancer.
Validated studies of lapacho in loosening of the bowels, anticancer, antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antifungal, and antiflammatory effects are reported in the literature.
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